Sarawak’s Digital Leap: Youth on the Frontline of Change
As Sarawak accelerates its digital transformation, the impact on its youth is becoming more evident. Government initiatives to drive the digital economy, enhance smart infrastructure, and professionalise media practices are shaping a new future – one where technology is central to how young Sarawakians learn, work, communicate, and connect. Yet, while the opportunities are vast, so too are the challenges.
Opportunities Through Technology and Smart Development
The Sarawak government has invested heavily in developing a digital ecosystem. Agencies like the Sarawak Multimedia Authority (SMA) and Unit Komunikasi Awam Sarawak (UKAS) have been pivotal in building a tech-forward, transparent government framework that promotes innovation. These efforts align with broader goals under the Sarawak Digital Economy Strategy 2018 – 2022, which continues to influence infrastructure development and digital inclusivity today.
Challenges: Digital Overload and Emotional Toll
However, digitalisation has also introduced social and emotional strains. A Suara Sarawak feature reveals growing concern over emotional instability and stress in youth due to hyperconnectivity and constant exposure to online pressures. Many young people now equate self-worth with digital engagement – likes, shares, and follower counts – often leading to low self-esteem and social withdrawal.
This issue is further complicated when digital spaces blur with personal life. While some reports suggest that digital tools help families stay connected, others highlight a weakening of genuine communication, with young people spending more time online than engaging with those around them.
Unequal Access: The Digital Divide in Sarawak
Another significant challenge is the urban-rural digital divide. While urban areas in Kuching and Miri are rapidly advancing in connectivity and digital services, rural youth often lack access to stable internet or digital devices. This disparity limits their participation in the digital economy, further widening socio-economic gaps. Equitable infrastructure investment is needed to ensure all youth – regardless of geography – benefit from the digital transition.
Overview of Impact on Sarawakian Youth
| Positive Effects | Negative Effects |
| New jobs in tech and creative industries | Emotional strain from online comparison |
| Skills development in AI, design, and coding | Social isolation due to excessive screen time |
| Entrepreneurial opportunities in digital tourism | Unequal internet access in rural areas |
| Access to global markets and exposure | Misinformation, cyberbullying, and data privacy risks |
Table 1 shows the positive and negative impacts of digital technology and social media on youth in Sarawak, highlighting opportunities for growth alongside challenges such as mental health and unequal access.
Moving Forward: Empowering and Protecting Youth
To protect young Sarawakians while preparing them for the digital future, a multi-pronged approach is needed. This includes:
- Digital literacy education in schools and communities
- Mental health programs focused on digital wellbeing
- Rural connectivity investments to close the access gap
- Ethical content creation training for aspiring youth influencers
- Professional media standards supported by agencies like UKAS and RTM.
Sarawak’s digital ambition is clear – and youth remain central to its success. With balanced support, their role in shaping a smart, inclusive, and thriving Sarawak can be both meaningful and sustainable.
References
- https://suarasarawak.my/bomba-disaran-guna-media-sosial-secara-berhemah-dan-profesional/
- https://www.tvsarawak.my/2025/01/07/tyt-saran-ukas-mpi-bekerjasama-tingkat-tahap-profesionalisme-pengamal-media-sarawak/
- https://suarasarawak.my/emosi-generasi-muda-era-digital/
- https://malaysiaaktif.my/2024/10/media-sarawak-sebagai-jambatan-komunikasi-antara-masyarakat-dengan-petronas/
- https://www.kompasiana.com/hen12684/66a797afed641564ce5786a2/media-sosial-dan-keakraban-keluarga-meningkatkan-hubungan-melalui-interaksi-digital-di-era-disrupsi
- https://berita.rtm.gov.my/nasional/senarai-berita-nasional/senarai-artikel/media-sosial-antara-medium-bantu-promosi-pelancongan-di-sarawak
- https://suarautama.id/pengaruh-media-sosial-terhadap-hubungan-keluarga/
- https://www.tvsarawak.my/2024/05/26/sarawak-komited-sokong-industri-media-profesional-pupuk-inovasi-abdullah/
- https://themalaysiapost.com/kesan-negatif-positif-pengaruh-media-sosial-terhadap-hubungan-kekeluargaan/
- https://premierdept.sarawak.gov.my/web/subpage/news_view/1962/UKAS
